As I wrote last year, one of the greatest things about tattoos is that
they inspire communication. People are naturally curious over what
others painstakingly and permanently put in their own skins. We hunger
for a good story ... and many of us hunger to tell one. A mother may
want you to know that the name above her heart is her beloved daughter.
The veteran with the memorial tattoo on his arm lets you know about the
courage of his lost friend. This communicative value also
allows for teaching moments. A Dr. King tribute speaks not only about
the how the activist inspired the tattoo collector but may also educate
another who does not know of King's life and legacy.

It's
powerful, what tattoos can do. And it's why I appreciate it when I do
find tributes to inspiring figures, as they can be daily reminders to be
better to each other and ourselves.

Below are some MLK tattoos we've featured in past posts -- beautiful tributes worth taking a second look.